Why Alpha Developers Should Use Twitter

This webinar will guide you in basic to intermediate strategies for using Twitter. You will learn how to track trends in web and mobile development, connect with fellow Alpha developers, and build an audience to effectively market your work. We will discuss what makes this platform useful and unique and how to get started following and sharing interesting content.

With over a quarter-billion active users, Twitter has become the world’s largest real-time discussion. Yet this powerful social network is also one of the most confusing when you’re getting started. In order to help you take advantage of everything Twitter has to offer, we will be producing a beginner’s guide over the next few weeks.

Not sure if you’re ready to take the plunge? Here are four reasons why every Alpha Anywhere developer should use Twitter:

Track developments in technology, including mobile and web development. This space evolves rapidly, and it can be difficult to stay on top of all the latest trends. Twitter is like a giant news feed that you can cultivate, and it’s always a step ahead of everyone else. Follow reporters and companies to see what’s new.

Reach new clients for your product or company. Facebook and LinkedIn are great for staying in touch with a few people you already know, while Twitter is far more useful for connecting with large numbers of people you don’t already know, around shared interests. We have identified around 150,000 users actively discussing web and mobile development, and there are millions more who need these services for their efforts. Don’t leave this valuable marketing channel untapped.

Build deeper relationships with current customers. Maintaining constant contact is essential to sustaining long-term clients. Sending long emails and writing new blog posts isn’t always viable; it takes time and you don’t always have that much to say. Twitter fills a gap, letting you share short updates that don’t fit elsewhere. It also let’s you listen. Follow customers, listen to them, and provide support when needed to keep the lines of communication open and active.

Connect with fellow Alpha developers. We are actively building a community on Twitter using the hashtag #AlphaDev. Follow that hashtag and use it in your Tweets to join the conversation. Share ideas for projects before you begin or as you’re building and get feedback. Collaborate with fellow developers on your next big idea. When you’re having trouble, ask for help and get support. The possibilities are endless once you get connected.

Zachary Green is an independent Twitter consultant. Follow him @140elect.